Synchronous Isolated Cystic Pancreatic Metastasis Arising From Primary Colorectal Cancer: A Rare Case Report

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Pancreatic cancer is a significant cause of cancer death globally.
• Metastatic tumors to the pancreas are rare (1-2%), with renal cell carcinoma being the most common primary source.
• Pancreatic metastases from colorectal cancer are exceedingly rare, with unclear clinical behavior, management, and prognosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of pancreatic metastasis originating from colorectal cancer.
• To detail the management of this rare condition.
• To enhance understanding and guide future care for similar cases.

Main Methods:

• A case report of a 70-year-old male with rectal adenocarcinoma presenting with a pancreatic lesion.
• Diagnostic evaluations included colonoscopy, biopsy, staging, endoscopic ultrasound, and fine-needle aspiration.
• Treatment involved pelvic radiation, chemotherapy, abdominoperineal resection, and a Whipple procedure.

Main Results:

• Rectal adenocarcinoma was confirmed, with staging revealing a 5-cm cystic pancreatic lesion consistent with metastasis.
• The patient underwent a multi-modal treatment approach including surgery and chemotherapy.
• Histopathological analysis confirmed metastatic colorectal adenocarcinoma with high-risk features but negative surgical margins.

Conclusions:

• Surgical resection is the cornerstone of treatment for secondary pancreatic cancer, regardless of the primary tumor's origin.
• Resection is associated with improved palliation and more favorable survival outcomes.
• Further studies on secondary pancreatic cancer are needed, but current evidence supports aggressive surgical management.